Metz leave it late to grab Avranches win

Ligue 1 strugglers Metz needed extra time to conjure up a 3-0 victory over third-tier Avranches and book their place in the last 16 of the Coupe de France this evening.

Kickoff at the Stade Rene Fenouillere had been delayed by half an hour because of floodlight problems, but the wait didn't prevent the visitors from starting brightly.

Juan Manuel Falcon headed wide an early chance for Metz before Yeni N'Gbakoto's long-range shot hit the post.

On the stroke of half time Jose Palomino was unable to beat Avranches keeper Anthony Beuve after meeting Kevin Lejeune's free kick.

Avranches started the second half well, but they almost fell behind when N'Gbakoto's flick in the box flew just wide.

Metz were the side looking more like grabbing a late winner, but neither Florent Malouda nor Falcon could breach the Avranches backline.

Just four minutes into extra time Metz finally went ahead when Guirane Ndaw rose highest to head home a Lejeune corner.

Substitute Bouna Sarr then doubled Metz's lead in the 96th minute before Kevin Schur made sure of the win and booked a place in the next round for Albert Cartier's side.